Delicious & Easy One-Bowl Vegan Zucchini Bread: A Healthy Gluten-Free Recipe for Late Summer

Discover the ultimate late-summer treat: this incredibly moist, flavorful, and easy-to-make vegan zucchini bread. Crafted in just one bowl using wholesome almond flour, oats, and fresh grated zucchini, it’s the perfect plant-based, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free solution for breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a delightful dessert!

Life has a funny way of accelerating, doesn’t it? Just two weeks ago, we welcomed Flora, our new puppy, into our lives, and already her tiny features are morphing, growing, and settling into that of a young dog. It’s truly remarkable how quickly they change! Last night, my partner M looked at me with a mix of wonder and nostalgia, exclaiming, “Where did our little puppy go?!”

It’s true; Flora is undeniably getting bigger every single day. Honestly, it’s becoming quite a workout for me to carry her with just one arm! Despite the adorable challenges and the delightful chaos that comes with being new dog parents, we are absolutely cherishing every single second. From playful zoomies to quiet cuddles, our home feels even more vibrant and full of life.

One silver lining in this exciting new chapter is that Flora seems completely unfazed by my constant activity in the kitchen. Whether I’m bustling around, clanking pots and pans, or running the mixer, she remains calm and curious. This is fantastic news, as my passion and profession involve making a lot of food – and yes, often a fair bit of noise in the process!

So far, her only approved “human food” indulgence is good old peanut butter, which she devours from her Kong toy with impressive accuracy and speed. Her current favorite *high-value* treats are some homemade peanut butter oat training bites, which have quickly become pure gold currency in our household. Whenever we need her to focus or learn a new command quickly, a peanut butter treat is the magical difference between playful distractions and attentive obedience.

I’m certain Flora would be absolutely thrilled if she could get her paws on some of the amazing aromas wafting from the kitchen lately. And I can’t blame her! These past few weeks, I’ve been making this incredible Vegan Zucchini Bread on repeat. It’s my go-to recipe for utilizing the bountiful summer zucchini harvest, ensuring none of that seasonal goodness goes to waste.

This particular vegan zucchini bread is a true marvel, especially for busy individuals. It comes together effortlessly in just one bowl, streamlining the baking process and making cleanup a breeze. It features a harmonious blend of almond flour, rolled oats, and fresh grated zucchini, creating a bread that is incredibly moist, tender, and packed with wholesome goodness. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of late summer flavors, perfectly suited as a nourishing breakfast, a satisfying mid-day snack, or a guilt-free dessert for all my human friends!

What You Need to Make This Healthy Vegan Zucchini Bread

Creating this delicious, wholesome vegan zucchini bread requires a handful of simple, plant-based ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, or can easily find at any grocery store. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way these ingredients come together to form a perfectly balanced, flavorful loaf. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

• Ground flaxseed: Essential for creating our “flax egg,” which acts as a powerful vegan binder, replacing traditional eggs and adding healthy omega-3s.
• Pure maple syrup: Our primary natural sweetener, providing a rich, caramel-like flavor without any refined sugars.
• Unrefined coconut sugar: Another natural sweetener that offers a deeper, more nuanced sweetness similar to brown sugar, complementing the maple syrup beautifully.
• Neutral nut butter (almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter): This ingredient is key for moisture and richness, eliminating the need for added oil. Opt for a neutral flavor to let the zucchini shine. Sunflower seed butter is a fantastic nut-free option!
• Unsweetened almond milk: Provides the necessary liquid for the batter, keeping it moist and dairy-free.
• Medium zucchini, grated: The star of the show! Grated zucchini adds incredible moisture and subtle sweetness, while also incorporating beneficial nutrients. Leaving the skins on adds fiber and vibrant color.
• Bob’s Red Mill Superfine Almond Flour: This finely ground flour contributes to the bread’s tender crumb and gluten-free structure.
• Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free Organic Old Fashioned Rolled Oats: Adds a delightful chewy texture and helps bind the bread, ensuring it’s hearty and satisfying.
• Oat flour: Further enhances the texture, making the bread wonderfully soft and dense. You can easily make your own by blending rolled oats!
• Baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the bread rise, creating a light yet sturdy loaf.
• Chopped walnuts: Provides a lovely crunch and earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with zucchini. Plus, they’re packed with healthy fats!

That’s it! With these wholesome ingredients, you’re well on your way to baking a truly exceptional vegan zucchini bread.

How to Make the Best Vegan Zucchini Bread

Making this vegan zucchini bread is surprisingly simple, especially since it’s a one-bowl wonder! Follow these steps for a perfect loaf every time:

1. Prepare Your Pan & Flax Egg: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard bread pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides for easy removal, or simply grease it lightly with coconut oil. In a separate small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed with 5 tablespoons of filtered water. Stir it thoroughly and set it aside for 5 minutes. This mixture will thicken into a gelatinous “flax egg,” which serves as our vegan binder.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl (this is where the “one-bowl” magic happens!), add the maple syrup, coconut sugar, your chosen neutral nut butter, unsweetened almond milk, and the grated zucchini. Stir everything together really well until all the wet ingredients are thoroughly combined and the sugar starts to dissolve.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: To the same bowl, add the Bob’s Red Mill Superfine Almond Flour, oat flour, Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free Organic Old Fashioned Rolled Oats, and the baking powder. Gently toss these dry ingredients on top of the wet mixture to distribute them before stirring.
4. Mix Until Just Combined: Stir everything until it’s uniformly combined and the batter becomes thick, with no visible streaks of dry flour. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing can develop gluten (even in gluten-free flours, if present) and lead to a tougher bread.
5. Fold in Walnuts: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts. These add a fantastic textural contrast and nutty flavor.

6. Transfer to Pan & Bake: Spoon the thick batter into your prepared bread pan. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, ensuring a consistent bake. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional chopped walnuts on top of the batter before baking.

7. Bake to Perfection: Bake the bread for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is firm to the touch, beautifully golden brown, and the edges start to pull away slightly from the pan. A wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
8. Cool Completely: Once baked, carefully remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire cooling rack. This step is crucial! Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes, then transfer it directly to the rack to finish cooling for at least another hour, or until fully cool. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy and helps it hold its shape when sliced.

9. Store for Freshness: Store any leftover vegan zucchini bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, individual slices can be frozen.

Brand Spotlight: Bob’s Red Mill for Superior Gluten-Free Baking

This delightful vegan zucchini bread owes much of its incredible texture and wholesome nature to the quality ingredients, particularly the Bob’s Red Mill Superfine Almond Flour and Gluten-Free Organic Old Fashioned Rolled Oats, which form the bulk of this recipe’s dry components. When it comes to vegan and gluten-free baking, the choice of flour and oats is paramount, and Bob’s Red Mill consistently delivers superior results.

I am a strong advocate for using a thoughtful blend of almond flour and oats to achieve the perfect texture in vegan and gluten-free baked goods. Almond flour contributes a wonderfully tender, moist crumb, providing a subtle nutty flavor and a rich, satisfying mouthfeel. Meanwhile, the oats (both whole rolled oats and oat flour) add a delightful chewiness and a heartiness that ensures the bread is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. This combination strikes a beautiful balance, preventing the bread from being too dense or too crumbly, which can sometimes be a challenge in gluten-free recipes.

In this specific recipe, the synergy between the superfine almond flour, rolled oats, and oat flour creates a bread that is remarkably moist yet possesses a pleasant, slightly chewy texture. You have the flexibility to use Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free Oat Flour directly, or if you prefer a more DIY approach, you can easily process their Gluten-Free Organic Old Fashioned Rolled Oats in a high-speed blender until a fine flour consistency is achieved. It’s a simple trick that ensures you always have oat flour on hand.

I consistently keep these high-quality Bob’s Red Mill products stocked in my pantry. They are truly indispensable for all my vegan and gluten-free baking and cooking adventures, guaranteeing consistent results and delicious outcomes every time.

Swaps and Substitutions for Your Vegan Zucchini Bread

While this recipe is carefully formulated for optimal results, a few thoughtful substitutions can be made based on your pantry and preferences. However, please note that changing the flour blend can significantly alter the texture and moisture of the bread.

• Flour Alternatives: I highly recommend sticking to the almond flour and oat ratio specified in the recipe. The combination is designed to create a perfect balance of moisture, tenderness, and chewiness that might be difficult to replicate with other gluten-free flours. Swapping out other flours could result in a denser, drier, or more crumbly loaf.
• Nut Butter Choices: Any neutral-flavored nut or seed butter will work wonderfully to maintain the incredibly moist texture of this bread without the need for any added oil. My personal favorite is SunButter for its rich flavor and allergen-friendly profile, making this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies. Other delicious options include smooth almond butter or creamy cashew butter, both of which add a subtle richness without overpowering the zucchini flavor. Ensure your chosen butter is unsweetened and has a smooth consistency for best results.
• Nutty Add-Ins: If walnuts aren’t your preference or you simply want to try something different, feel free to substitute them with other crunchy additions. Chopped pecans or slivered almonds are excellent alternatives that will add a similar texture and a lovely nutty depth. For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider lightly toasting your nuts before adding them to the batter. You can also get creative by folding in vegan chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a different twist.
• Sweetener Adjustments: While maple syrup and coconut sugar provide the perfect balance of natural sweetness, you could experiment with other liquid or granular unrefined sweeteners if absolutely necessary, keeping in mind that the moisture content might vary slightly.

Feel free to experiment with these ideas to customize your loaf, but always keep in mind that slight adjustments might be needed for the perfect outcome.

Smart Meal Prep Tips for This Vegan Zucchini Bread

This vegan zucchini bread is not only delicious but also an excellent candidate for meal prepping, making your busy week mornings or snack times a breeze. Having a wholesome, homemade treat readily available means you’re less likely to reach for less healthy options. Here’s how to maximize its meal prep potential:

• Refrigerator Storage: After baking and allowing the bread to cool completely, store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and moist for up to one week, making it perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.
• Freezing for Long-Term: For longer-term storage, this bread freezes beautifully. I highly recommend slicing the entire loaf once it has cooled and wrapping individual slices in parchment paper or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can easily grab just one slice at a time without having to thaw the entire loaf. Frozen slices will retain their quality for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating Instructions:
  • From the refrigerator: You can enjoy slices straight from the fridge for a quick, cool treat. If you prefer it warm, simply pop a slice into the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or toast it lightly in a toaster oven until warmed through.
  • From the freezer: For frozen slices, you can either thaw them at room temperature for an hour or two, or reheat them directly in the microwave for approximately 1-2 minutes (depending on your microwave’s power) until soft and warm. A toaster oven can also revive a frozen slice beautifully, giving it a slightly crispy edge.

These meal prep strategies ensure you always have a healthy, homemade option at your fingertips, whether you’re craving a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a delightful dessert.

Delicious Ways to Serve Your Vegan Zucchini Bread

This One-Bowl Vegan Zucchini Bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways, making it the perfect addition to any part of your day. It’s ideal for a satisfying late summer breakfast, a wholesome snack, or a light and healthy dessert. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions to elevate your zucchini bread experience:

• Warm with Nut Butter: My absolute favorite way to enjoy this bread is served slightly warm, generously smeared with a dollop of your favorite creamy nut butter. Almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter all work wonderfully, adding an extra layer of richness and protein.
• Simply Solo: Sometimes, simplicity is key! This bread is so flavorful and moist on its own that it truly shines when enjoyed plain. It’s perfect for a quick bite when you’re on the go.
• With Vegan Butter: For a classic bread experience, serve a warm slice with a pat of good quality vegan butter. The subtle saltiness of the butter beautifully complements the bread’s sweetness.
• In a Yogurt Bowl: Transform a slice into a more substantial meal by serving it alongside a scoop of your favorite plant-based yogurt (coconut, almond, or soy yogurt are great choices). Add some fresh berries, a sprinkle of granola, and a few extra nuts for a vibrant and filling yogurt bowl.
• Coffee or Tea Companion: This bread is the ultimate pairing for your favorite warm beverage. Enjoy a slice with a comforting cup of tea, a robust coffee, or a creamy plant-based latte for a truly delightful moment of culinary bliss.
• Toasted Perfection: Lightly toasting a slice brings out its nutty flavors and adds a pleasant crispiness to the edges, especially delicious when topped with a fruit spread or vegan cream cheese.

However you choose to enjoy it, this vegan zucchini bread is sure to bring a smile to your face. Enjoy every wholesome bite!

More Delicious Vegan Bread Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this vegan zucchini bread and are looking for more wholesome, plant-based baking inspiration, you’re in luck! My kitchen is always buzzing with new and exciting bread creations that are perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert. Here are some other favorite vegan bread recipes that I think you’ll absolutely love:

• Cinnamon Tahini Walnut Banana Bread

• Strawberry Banana Bread

• 1-Bowl Orange Cranberry Bread

• Dark Chocolate Banana Bread

• Black Sesame Butter Banana Bread

• 1-Bowl Butternut Bread

• Vegan & Gluten-Free Cinnamon Raisin Bread

• Blueberry Banana Breakfast Bread

• Vegan Banana Chocolate Chunk Bread

• Pumpkin Chocolate Chunk Bread

• 1-Bowl Tahini Date Nut Bread

• Vegan Pumpkin Spice Bread

I Want to Hear From You!

If you give this delightful Vegan Zucchini Bread recipe a try, I’d absolutely love to know what you think! Your feedback is incredibly valuable and helps me create more delicious and healthy recipes for you to enjoy.

Please be sure to leave a comment below with your thoughts, a rating, and a review of how it turned out. Your insights help improve recipes and inspire others in our wonderful community.

Don’t forget to give me a shout on Instagram and use #floraandvino to show off your beautiful creations. I love seeing your baking adventures!

For more plant-based inspiration and to discover other recipes like this one, make sure to check out my Pinterest page. It’s packed with ideas for your next healthy meal or treat.

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XO Lauren

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